THE star of Location, Location, Location and Froyle resident Phil Spencer and a team of volunteers are preparing for an ‘Everest In The Alps’ challenge in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity.

In the hope of raising vital funds for life saving research, the team will start the four-day challenge on February 28.

Known as the ‘second ascent’, the 30 volunteers will venture to the Swiss Alps to scale the equivalent height of the tallest mountain in the world on skis.

Phil, who co-hosts Channel 4’s hit property show Location, Location, Location with Kirsty Allsopp, is teaming up with accountancy firm Smith and Williamson to take on the 8,848 metre challenge and will be using a Versaclimber (VC) machine to aid his training.

When asked why he wanted to take part, Phil said: “I’ve always been passionate about ‘doing what you can’ for charitable causes that need urgent help and though I’ve taken part in various fitness-related challenges before, it has never been on this scale. 

“Brain cancer in children is an area that needs crucial funding towards research and care, and with 30 eager people taking part, we are determined to succeed for the cause.

“It’ll be the toughest challenge of our lives, but we’re ready!”

In order to prepare for the steep climbs, aching limbs and high altitude, the housing-expert embarked on a strict regime in September 2017.

It came after a long period out of regular training, when he moved from London to Hampshire. 

Phil is using the VC once a day, benefiting from the machine’s unique ability to provide a full-body, low impact workout. 

To increase his cardiovascular endurance and prepare for the Alps, Phil’s training involves climbing intervals with strict timed deadlines to reach certain heights.

Starting from 1,000 metres in one hour, the hope is to climb the height of Everest on the machine within two days.

Phil continued: “Training on the VC is very intense.

“I’ve used rowing machines and treadmills to train for previous events, but using the VC has been ideal preparation ahead of my trip to Switzerland. 

“The challenge will be the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but the VC is about getting me as physically prepared as I can be.

“This will also be a test of mental strength, so having a strong and determined team alongside you will be crucial, particularly when you need that big push.” 

To sponsor the team’s winter endeavour in aid of The Brain Tumour Charity, visit www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/thebraintumourcharity/everest2018.